Photo: DeWalt
A drill is one of the most basic tools that any woodworker should have. It is ideal for making round holes or driving fasteners through drywall, wood, and even soft metals like aluminum.
However, not all drills are the same. They vary in speed, power, size, and other features, which makes them ideal for different types of tasks. Here is a review of the best corded drill that explains these features in detail to help you make an informed buying decision.
In this post:
- 10 Best Corded Drills – Review
- 1. DeWalt DWD210G – Best Overall Corded Drill
- 2. Black & Decker DR260C – Best Corded Drill for the Money
- 3. Makita 6407 – Best Lightweight Corded Drill
- 4. DeWalt DW130V – Best High Torque Corded Drill
- 5. Metabo HPT D10VH2 – Best High-Speed Corded Drill
- 6. DeWalt DWD115K – Ergonomically Designed Corded Drill
- 7. DeWalt DWD112 – Smooth Running Corded Drill
- 8. Skil 6335-02 – Easy-to-Control Corded Drill
- 9. Porter-Cable PC600D – Corded Drill with a Belt Clip
- 10. DeWalt DW511 – Best 2-in-1 Corded Drill
- Corded vs. Cordless Drill
- How to Buy the Best Corded Drill
- Conclusion
10 Best Corded Drills – Review
IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | 1. DeWalt DWD210G (Best Overall) |
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 | 2. Black & Decker DR260C (Best for the Money) |
| |
 | 3. Makita 6407 (Best Lightweight) |
| |
 | 4. DeWalt DW130V (Best High Torque) |
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 | 5. Metabo HPT D10VH2 (Best High-Speed) |
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 | 6. DeWalt DWD115K (Ergonomical Design) |
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 | 7. DeWalt DWD112 (Smooth Running) |
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 | 8. Skil 6335-02 (Easy-to-Control) |
| |
 | 9. Porter-Cable PC600D (With a Belt Clip) |
| |
 | 10. DeWalt DW511 (Best 2-in-1 Drill) |
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PRODUCT |
|---|
1. DeWalt DWD210G (Best Overall)
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2. Black & Decker DR260C (Best for the Money)
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3. Makita 6407 (Best Lightweight)
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4. DeWalt DW130V (Best High Torque)
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5. Metabo HPT D10VH2 (Best High-Speed)
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6. DeWalt DWD115K (Ergonomical Design)
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7. DeWalt DWD112 (Smooth Running)
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8. Skil 6335-02 (Easy-to-Control)
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9. Porter-Cable PC600D (With a Belt Clip)
|
10. DeWalt DW511 (Best 2-in-1 Drill)
|
1. DeWalt DWD210G – Best Overall Corded Drill
Photo: DeWalt
- Power: 10 Amp
- Drill Size: 1/2 in.
- Speed: 1250 RPM
- Weight: 4.9 lbs.
DeWalt’s DWD210G takes the overall best spot because it is very powerful. It is actually the top-rated corded drill in this review and clients seem to appreciate the fact that it has a powerful 10-amp motor that gives high drilling performance.
This motor delivers a top speed of 1250 RPM and it has overload protection as a safety feature. The speed adjustment from 0-1250 RPM is variable and it can be reversed for additional versatility.
A keyed 1/2-in chuck is fitted at the front of the drill and apart from spade and auger bits, this can handle 1/2-in twist drill bits for drilling through metal.
That said, when working on wood, it has a 1.5-in drilling capacity, which can be extended to 2-9/16 inches if using a self-feed unit. If used with a hole saw, you get a 3-5/8-in capacity in wood and a 2-in capacity in steel.
Other features include a comfortable pistol grip and an ergonomic anti-slip main grip for comfortable use, a comfortable 2 finger trigger, and a metal gear housing that is very durable. The only problem is that the drill is quite expensive, but it is worth the price.
Pros:
- Powerful 10-amp motor
- Variable and reversible speed control
- Comfortable pistol grip
- Comfortable 2 finger grip
- Durable metal gear housing
Cons:
- Quite expensive
2. Black & Decker DR260C – Best Corded Drill for the Money
Photo: Black & Decker
- Power: 5.2 Amp
- Drill Size: 3/8 in.
- Speed: 1500 RPM
- Weight: 3.25 lbs.
If you are a bit short on cash, Black & Decker’s DR260C is the corded drill to buy because it is very affordable. Despite this, it has a relatively fast drilling speed, which is variably controlled from 0-1500 RPM.
The unit is fitted with a 3/8-in keyless chuck that simplifies the bit changing process, and it has onboard bit storage for quick access when switching between drilling and driving bits.
You also get a comfortable non-slip rubber grip, but the drill has a 5.2-amp motor, which is not very powerful.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Variable speed control
- Keyless chuck for quick bit changes
- Onboard bit storage
Cons:
- Not very powerful
3. Makita 6407 – Best Lightweight Corded Drill
Photo: Makita
- Power: 4.9 Amp
- Drill Size: 3/8 in.
- Speed: 2500 RPM
- Weight: 3.1 lbs.
Weighing in at only 3.1 lbs., Makita’s 6407 is very lightweight and this minimizes hand fatigue when in use. In addition to this, the unit operates quietly and is rated at 79dB, which is equivalent to the sound produced by a dishwasher. Therefore, it is gentle to your hands and ears.
Apart from that, a large 2 finger trigger makes it easy to operate the drill and it gives you variable speed settings from 0-2500 RPM.
You also get a large recessed lock-on button for holding the trigger during long periods of continuous use and a reversing switch for versatile use in driving and removing screws.
More features include an all ball bearing construction for smooth running and enhanced durability, a 3/8-in keyed chuck plus the chuck key, and a belt hook for convenient storage. On the downside, the drill is fitted with a 4.9-amp motor, which is not very strong.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Low noise operation
- Large and easy-to-control 2 finger trigger
- Lock-on button for holding the trigger
- All ball bearing construction for smooth running
Cons:
- Not very powerful
4. DeWalt DW130V – Best High Torque Corded Drill
Photo: DeWalt
- Power: 9 Amp
- Drill Size: 1/2 in.
- Speed: 550 RPM
- Weight: 7.5 lbs.
Though it has a powerful 9-amp motor, DeWalt’s DW130V has a low maximum speed of 550 RPM. Instead of speed, the motor’s output is controlled to raise the torque, which provides a strong drilling force and enough power for mud mixing.
A variable speed reversible switch helps you to control the motor’s output for precision drilling and avoids air bubbles when mixing while a soft-grip handle helps you to hold it firmly when in use.
Other than that, you get a 2-position rear spade handle and a 3-position side handle for comfortable holding and accurate positioning of the drill bit.
More features include a 1/2-in keyed chuck and a chuck key with a holder is included in the set. The main issue though is that the drill is expensive and also very heavy (7.5 lbs.).
Pros:
- High torque output
- Powerful 9-amp motor
- Variable speed reversible switch
- 2-position rear spade handle
- 3-position side handle
Cons:
- Heavy
- Expensive
5. Metabo HPT D10VH2 – Best High-Speed Corded Drill
Photo: Metabo HPT
- Power: 7 Amp
- Drill Size: 3/8 in.
- Speed: 2700 RPM
- Weight: 3.2 lbs.
With a relatively powerful 7-amp motor, Metabo HPT’s D10VH2 combines speed with optimal torque, reaching a high of 2700 RPM and a maximum torque of 133.7 in-lbs. These figures are ideal for high-speed operations such as drilling and driving/removing screws, bolts, and nuts.
That said, this speed is adjusted via a variable speed trigger for precision drilling while a forward/reverse button allows you to switch from driving to removing screws and nuts in an instant. You also get a trigger lock button for holding the trigger during long periods of use.
A keyless 3/8-in chuck makes it easy to switch from drilling to driving bits and it has an all-metal construction for maximum durability.
Other features include a form fit rubber grip with an over-molded handle for comfortable use with minimal vibrations, a belt hook for convenient storage, and a compact body that fits easily in tight spaces.
However, the drill lacks an additional handle for easier control when in use.
Pros:
- High top speed
- Variable speed trigger
- Forward/reverse button plus a trigger lock button
- Durable keyless all-metal chuck
- Built-in belt hook
Cons:
- Lacks a side or rear handle for additional support
6. DeWalt DWD115K – Ergonomically Designed Corded Drill
Photo: DeWalt
- Power: 8 Amp
- Drill Size: 3/8 in.
- Speed: 2500 RPM
- Weight: 4.1 lbs.
DeWalt’s DWD115K is built to be comfortable to handle and for this, it has a mid-handle grip with a soft rubber anti-slip surface.
The main handle has a soft rubber surface and combined, these two give you better balance, control, command when drilling because you hold it using both hands.
In addition to this, the unit has an all ball-bearing construction that ensures it runs smoothly while also maintaining durability for long-lasting use.
That aside, the drill is equipped with an 8-amp motor that is ideal for heavy-duty applications. This motor’s output is controlled using a variable speed reverse trigger, which allows you to adjust to any speed between 0 and 2500 RPM.
You get a 3/8-in all-metal keyless chuck for easy bit changes, a belt hook for convenient hanging, and a kit box for safe storage and transportation of the drill. On the downside, no bit is included in the set.
Pros:
- Mid-handle grip for better balance, control, and command
- All ball-bearing construction for smooth running
- Durable all-metal keyless chuck
- Built-in belt hook
- Includes a kit box
Cons:
- No bit is included
7. DeWalt DWD112 – Smooth Running Corded Drill
Photo: DeWalt
- Power: 8 Amp
- Drill Size: 3/8 in.
- Speed: 2500 RPM
- Weight: 4.1 lbs.
With an all ball-bearing construction, DeWalt’s DWD112 drills and fastens very smoothly. This design makes it very durable and therefore, it will serve you for a long time before wearing out.
That said, power is provided by an 8-amp motor, which provides sufficient rotary motion for heavy-duty applications while a variable speed reverse trigger allows you to control the speed from 0-2500 RPM for precision drilling/fastening.
This power is directed to a 3/8-in all-metal ratcheting keyless chuck, which offers better bit retention while also being easy to use.
Other features include a soft grip anti-slip rubber handle, a large 2 finger trigger, and a belt hook for hanging when not in use. However, no drill or driver bit is included in the set.
Pros:
- Smooth all ball-bearing construction
- Variable speed reverse trigger with a top speed of 2500 RPM
- All-metal ratcheting keyless chuck
- Soft grip anti-slip rubber handle
- Belt hanging hook
Cons:
- Does not come with a drill/driver bit
8. Skil 6335-02 – Easy-to-Control Corded Drill
Photo: Skil
- Power: 7 Amp
- Drill Size: 1/2 in.
- Speed: 950 RPM
- Weight: 5.9 lbs.
With a built-in side assist handle, Skil’s 6335-02 gives you extra grip that allows for easy control because you can hold the drill at the required spot for accurate drilling. Additionally, this handle is adjustable to any position for comfortable holding.
To give you more control, the unit is fitted with a variable speed trigger, which is large enough to accommodate two fingers for easy use. A lock-on button is included to keep the trigger in for you if drilling continuously for long periods.
A spirit level is built-in, and it comes in very handy if you want to drill perfectly horizontally. You get a 1/2-in keyed chuck that fits large diameter bits for the toughest woodworking tasks.
However, the drill is quite heavy because it weighs 5.9 lbs. This might cause hand fatigue.
Pros:
- Adjustable side-assist handle
- 2 finger variable speed trigger
- Lock-on button for easy continuous use
- Built-in spirit level
Cons:
- Quite heavy
9. Porter-Cable PC600D – Corded Drill with a Belt Clip
Photo: Porter-Cable
- Power: 6.5 Amp
- Drill Size: 3/8 in.
- Speed: 2500 RPM
- Weight: 4 lbs.
Porter Cable’s PC600D has a built-in belt clip that keeps it conveniently hanged on your waist when not in use. Considering that it weighs only 4 lbs., this will not weigh you down or cause any major discomfort when hung.
That said, the drill is run using a 6.5-amp motor, which is controlled via a variable speed trigger to run the chuck at a speed of 0-2500 RPM. For prolonged drilling, a lock-on button is built in to hold the trigger for you by locking it in place.
The chuck can accommodate 3/8-in bits, and it is keyless, which allows for fast and easy bit changes. Other features are a high torque gear design for heavy-duty applications and a comfortable soft-grip handle.
However, no bit is included in the set to help you get started straight out of the box.
Pros:
- Built-in belt clip
- Lock-on button for prolonged drilling
- Keyless chuck for quick and easy bit changes
- High torque gear design
- Comfortable soft-grip handle
Cons:
- No drill/drive bit
10. DeWalt DW511 – Best 2-in-1 Corded Drill
Photo: DeWalt
- Power: 8.5 Amp
- Drill Size: 1/2 in.
- Speed: 2700 RPM
- Weight: 4.3 lbs.
DeWalt’s DW511 is a very versatile tool because it is a drill and hammer drill in one. As such, it can be used for heavy-duty applications such as drilling through steel, cement, stones, and wood.
The unit is equipped with a 360º adjustable side-handle for easy and accurate control, and this component has a depth rod that enables you to drill with increased depth accuracy.
A powerful 8.5-amp motor runs the keyed 1/2-in chuck for high-performance drilling and it has overload protection for safety and durability.
This motor is controlled via a variable speed trigger for precision drilling, and it enables you to adjust the speed from 0-2700 RPM, which is very quick. The trigger can accommodate two fingers for comfortable use. The only problem is that the unit is quite costly.
Pros:
- Versatile drill and drill hammer in one design
- 360º adjustable side handle
- Depth rod for better depth accuracy
- Powerful 8.5-amp motor
- Comfortable 2 finger trigger
Cons:
- Relatively expensive
Corded vs. Cordless Drill
Photo: Black & Decker
The most obvious difference between these two is the fact that corded drills have power cords that link up to wall outlets to draw power while cordless drills run on battery power. However, this brings about other differences in portability, power, and weight.
Cordless drills can be used almost anywhere because you don’t need to plug them in. This is not the same case with corded units. They restrict your mobility and if you have to work on a site with no power, you must bring along a generator.
On the bright side, corded drills have a reliable, continuous power supply source, which means you get consistent performance. This makes them ideal for heavy-duty tasks, such as drilling through steel and other metals.
However, with cordless units, as the battery wears down, the motor receives less power, which means the drilling performance degrades with time. Therefore, such drills are not recommended for heavy-duty tasks.
When it comes to weight, corded drills are more lightweight because they don’t have heavy batteries attached. This also makes them less bulky.
How to Buy the Best Corded Drill
Photo: Porter-Cable
1. Power
Measured in amperes, this factor determines the strength of the motor, and the higher it is, the better. That said, DeWalt’s DWD210G is the most powerful drill in this review because it has a 10-amp motor.
However, there is another aspect to consider when looking at power and this is torque. Even with a less powerful motor, some drills have a set of gears that reduce the speed but increase the torque output, making them ideal for heavy tasks such as mud mixing.
As such, if you are looking for high torque output, be sure to check out DeWalt’s DW130V.
2. Speed
Drills have different running speeds, with the fastest ones running at about 2700 RPM. Even though this enables you to drill or drive fasteners very quickly, the most important factor is control.
For this, a drill should have a variable speed trigger that allows you to adjust the speed according to the task. The rotary motion should also be reversible for versatile use, such as in removing screws and nuts.
3. Comfort
Comfort and ergonomics should be checked in the handle and trigger design where you interact with the drill. On the handle, it should have a soft-grip anti-slip rubber surface for firm holding.
Some drills have additional side handles/ pistol handles or rear handles or both, and this helps to give you more comfort, control, and command when drilling. For such features, be sure to check out the DeWalt’s DW130V.
As for the trigger, a 2 finger design is recommended for comfortable and easier pressing.
4. Brand
For most products and especially power tools, you need to consider the brand due to trustworthiness. With corded drills, this is no different and all the products reviewed above are from trusted brands.
The most notable one is DeWalt but the others are also very trustworthy in terms of performance and durability.
5. Budget
Lastly, you need to consider how deep your pockets are because some cordless drills are quite expensive.
If you are buying the tool for a DIY project, you don’t need to spend a lot to acquire a high-end model with advanced features. You can buy the Black & Decker DR260C, which is very affordable.
However, for professionals, you must pick out specific features, for instance, if it is power, speed, or torque that you want, then buy the tool even if it is expensive.
Conclusion
All in all, there are different varieties of corded drills but DeWalt’s DWD210G takes the top spot because it is very powerful and it has a comfortable pistol grip for better control.
However, if you want high torque for powerful drilling or mud mixing, buy the DeWalt DW130V. For fatigue-free use, Makita’s 6407 is the best corded drill because it offers a lightweight solution that will not tire your hands even during prolonged use.